You can’t mention the Shelby-Chase football game without ‘the streak’ popping into conversation.

The Golden Lions have never lost in 47 tries against Chase and hope to kept that going as the two SMAC squads meet at Pearley Allen Field. There was one tie in 1968.

Shelby won twice against the Trojans last year with the second contest a 10-7 2A opening-round triumph for the Lions causing a few tense moments.

2 – Unto these hills

The Crest Chargers have a pretty solid record against ‘mountain’ teams.

Entering Friday’s contest with T.C. Roberson, Crest has a 20-2 mark playing teams that fit that label since they first ran into Tuscola in the 1980 3A playoffs.

The Chargers have a 7-1 record against the TCR Rams, with the only loss still fresh in their minds – a 28-27 decision at Sid Bryson Stadium last season.

3 – County games

The Kings Mountain/Burns engagement at Ron Greene Stadium Friday night is the first Cleveland County matchup of the season.

The remaining rivalry games include Shelby at KingsMountain on Sept. 27, Crest at KingsMountain on Oct. 11, Burns visiting Shelby on Oct. 18, Burns traveling to Crest on Nov. 1, and Crest playing at Shelby on Nov. 8.

4 – Burns advantage

The Bulldogs have won eight of the last 10 encounters with county rival Kings Mountain. That includes a 20-12 victory last season. The Mountaineers’ last win came against Burns in the 2009 season (21-14).

Kings Mountain is trying to put the brakes on an eight-game skid versus county opposition since a 20-17 triumph versus Shelby in 2010.

5 – The leaders are:

It’s no surprise that the unbeaten Burns Bulldogs are leading Cleveland County in rushing, total offense, rushing defense and total defense at the moment.

In individual categories, Shelby quarterback R.J. George is setting the pace in passing, teammate Ralph Jolly is the leading receiver, and Crest sophomore running back Tre Harbison is atop the rushing leaders.

If you’re going…

Crest at T.C. Roberson -- Take U.S. 74 West through Rutherford County, then get on to I-26 West (toward Asheville) and proceed to Old exit 6 (Skyland). Take a right at end of ramp, and follow the road past the ball fields on the left. Cross the bridge and make the first left. There is a green sign at the turn that says T.C. Roberson Athletic Stadium.